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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. About what has Karega finally learned the truth?

2. Why does Karega not accept the job at the store?

3. Why does Munira have an affair with Lillian?

4. Through what city are the workers planning to march?

5. Who did Munira's father try to seduce?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Thiongo was born in the same district as the novel was written in and his family was caught up in the Mau Mau rebellion, adhering to the rule that writers should always write about what they know. Do you think it is obvious that Thiongo knows his subject? What difference do you think it makes to the story? Are there any moments where you think Thiongo does not portray a character or setting so well? What effect does it have on the story?

Essay Topic 2

Examine Thiongo's writing style. How would you describe Thiongo's prose style? What kind of vocabulary does he use? Does he use any specific writing techniques? What meaning does Thiongo's style give to the story?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the values of 1970's Kenya.

1) Why was development and change such an issue during this time?

2) In what ways are the characters' negative characteristics a product of their time? Do you think Kenya was going through a transitional phase in the Seventies? What significant changes do you think occurred during this period?

3) How much has Kenya changed since the Seventies?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 291 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample